Astronauts welcome NASA's new 'ascans' | On the International Space Station Sept. 22-26, 2025

In the latest episode of This Week In Space, hosts Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik, along with guest Josh Dinner, dive into the exciting news about NASA's new class of astronauts and the upcoming Artemis II mission to the moon. This mission is significant as it marks a crucial step in humanity's return to lunar exploration, aiming to pave the way for future missions to Mars. The discussion highlights the importance of these astronauts in advancing space exploration and the technological innovations that will come from this endeavor.

NASA geologist and astronaut candidate Lauren Edgar, who has spent nearly two decades assisting in the operation of Mars rovers, expresses her excitement about the possibility of stepping foot on the Red Planet. This transition from designing experiments for astronauts to potentially being one of them highlights a significant personal achievement and the ongoing advancements in space exploration. Edgar's journey not only inspires future generations but also emphasizes the importance of human presence in understanding Mars.

NASA has officially confirmed the discovery of 6,000 exoplanets beyond our solar system, marking a significant milestone in astronomy just two decades after the first exoplanet was found. This exciting development highlights the rapid advancements in space exploration technology, particularly with next-generation telescopes set to launch soon, which will likely increase this number even further. Understanding these alien worlds could reshape our knowledge of the universe and the potential for life beyond Earth.

A small moon rock from the Apollo 17 mission, collected over 50 years ago, is shedding light on the early history of the Moon. Researchers have linked this rock to the formation of the Sea of Serenity, suggesting it may have formed hundreds of millions of years earlier than previously believed. This discovery is significant as it could reshape our understanding of lunar geology and the Moon's evolution, providing insights into the early solar system.

Blue Origin is making significant progress with its New Glenn rocket, now set to launch NASA's ESCAPADE Mars mission by mid-October. This mission is crucial as it represents a step forward in our exploration of Mars, aiming to gather valuable data about the planet's atmosphere and surface. The successful launch of this mission could enhance our understanding of Mars and pave the way for future exploration.

Experts suggest that if a space race is underway, China is currently in the lead, particularly in the quest to return Mars samples to Earth. This is significant because it highlights the growing competition in space exploration, where technological advancements and achievements could shift global power dynamics. As nations strive for supremacy in space, the implications for international relations and scientific collaboration could be profound.

NASA has launched the Carruthers Geocorona Observatory on a special mission to study Earth's enigmatic 'halo'. This two-year project aims to uncover the mysteries surrounding this phenomenon, which could enhance our understanding of the planet's atmosphere and its interactions with space. Such research is crucial as it may provide insights into climate change and the protection of our environment.

The crew of NASA's Artemis II mission, featuring three Americans and a Canadian, is gearing up to make space exploration more inclusive and accessible. In a recent preview, they emphasized a collaborative spirit, steering clear of current political debates. This mission not only represents a significant step in human spaceflight but also aims to inspire future generations to engage with space science and exploration.

Recent research highlights the role of a key protein regulator in controlling DNA repair mechanisms, suggesting that how quickly we age may be influenced by our cellular processes. This discovery is significant because it opens up potential avenues for interventions that could slow down aging by enhancing DNA repair, ultimately improving health and longevity.

On September 26, 2022, NASA's DART mission successfully collided with the asteroid Dimorphos, marking a historic moment in space exploration. This groundbreaking test demonstrates humanity's ability to alter the trajectory of potentially hazardous asteroids, raising hopes for planetary defense against future threats. The success of this mission not only showcases technological advancements but also emphasizes the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding Earth from cosmic dangers.

The future of the Dream Chaser space plane visiting the International Space Station (ISS) looks uncertain as modifications to a cargo deal between Sierra Space and NASA could prevent it from ever making the trip. This matters because the ISS has been a hub for scientific research and international collaboration in space, and losing the Dream Chaser would mean fewer opportunities for cargo delivery and experiments, impacting ongoing projects and the future of space exploration.

In an exciting development for space exploration, Katalyst Space Technologies has secured a contract to elevate NASA's Swift Observatory in 2026. This mission is significant as it marks the first time a private spacecraft will assist in boosting the altitude of a NASA telescope, which has been actively searching for gamma-ray bursts from low Earth orbit for over 20 years. This collaboration not only enhances the capabilities of the Swift Observatory but also highlights the growing role of private companies in space missions.

Washing your clothes in cold water is not just a trend; it's backed by modern science. Recent insights reveal that contemporary laundry detergents are more effective when used in cold water, which can lead to cleaner clothes while also saving energy. This shift not only benefits your wardrobe but also contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle by reducing your carbon footprint. So, next time you do laundry, consider going cold for a win-win situation.

The Fourier N1 humanoid robot has made waves with its impressive ability to cartwheel, showcasing the potential of open-source technology in robotics. Designed to foster collaboration among universities, labs, and hobbyists, this innovative bot not only entertains but also serves as a platform for learning and experimentation. Its capabilities highlight the exciting advancements in robotics and the importance of community-driven projects in pushing the boundaries of technology.

In a groundbreaking discovery, physicists have identified a loophole in Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, allowing them to measure both momentum and position simultaneously without breaking the fundamental rule. This advancement, achieved through the innovative use of a quantum grid, could revolutionize our understanding of quantum mechanics and enhance various technologies, making it a significant milestone in the field.

Get ready to embark on an exciting journey through the universe with a stellar trivia quiz! This engaging quiz explores the fascinating life cycle of stars, their classifications, and the incredible processes that fuel them. It's not just a fun challenge; it also deepens our understanding of the cosmos and highlights the wonders of astronomy, making it a perfect activity for both enthusiasts and curious minds alike.

Unexploded bombs from conflicts pose a significant threat to the environment, as they can contaminate land and water, disrupting ecosystems. With climate change intensifying these issues, the urgency to address the remnants of war becomes even more critical. Understanding this connection is vital for developing effective strategies to mitigate environmental damage and promote recovery in affected areas.

On September 28, 1928, Alexander Fleming made a groundbreaking discovery when he noticed a peculiar mold in his petri dish during his experiments with bacteria. This mold, which he later identified as penicillin, became the world's first antibiotic and transformed the treatment of bacterial infections, saving countless lives. This serendipitous moment not only highlights the importance of curiosity in science but also marks a pivotal point in medical history, showcasing how unexpected findings can lead to revolutionary advancements.